In India, there is a major and systematic bias against those of lower socioeconomic status. In addition, centralization has resulted in bureaucratization, regimentation, and reduced effectiveness. The correctional system is virtually a nonsystem, and sentencing criteria and guidelines are conspicuously absent. Jurisprudential confusion exists over such controversies as criminalization versus decriminalization and institutional versus noninstitutional measures, and there is a lack of public participation and confidence in the criminal justice system. Additional problems in India relate to violence against minorities (scheduled castes, women, children), bonded labor, and rising violent and youth crime rates. Possible remedies to these problems include the development of sentencing policies and standards; use of indeterminate sentencing, unit fines, and intermittent detention; decriminalization of begging and prostitution; development of victim compensation programs; and abolishing imprisonments too short to have a correctional impact. In addition, efforts are needed to improve public participation in the criminal justice system and to strengthen free legal aid for the poor. 2 tables.